Legendary Australian spinner Shane Warne died of a heart attack on Friday at the age of 52. Warne, widely regarded as the greatest spinner to have ever played the game, represented Australia in 145 Tests in a career spanning 15 years, taking 708 wickets which is the second most in the longest format of the game.
Warne made a huge impact on the Australian team which was a dominant force in the 1990s and 2000s. He took 319 wickets in home conditions where almost every spinner had a tough time keeping up.
The former Australian teammates were in shock after receiving the news of Warne’s death. Several Australian players took to Twitter to pay tribute to the King of Spin.
Former all-rounder Shane Watson wrote an emotional note for Warne and thanked him for treating him well.
“I’m numb!!! My hero, my mentor, my great friend Shane Warne is no more with us. Varney, the impact you had on this great sport and everyone around it is incomparable. So bloody good to me Thank you for being there. I am going to miss you very much. Rest in Peace SK,” tweeted Watson.
I am numb!!! My hero, my mentor, my great friend Shane Warne is no more with us. Varney, the impact you had on this great sport and everyone around it is immeasurable. Thank you for being so bloody good to me. I’m gonna miss you so much. Rest in Peace SK – Shane Watson (@ShaneRWatson33) 4 March 2022
Steve Waugh, who was one of Warne’s captains during his playing days, offered condolences to the family of the late cricketer.
“So many memories and moments that will never be forgotten. It was a privilege and a pleasure to play with you. My condolences and condolences to the Warne family. RIP Warnie,” he posted on Instagram.
Brett Lee, who played a lot of his cricket with Warne, called him the greatest bowler the game has ever played.
“Can’t believe the greatest bowler ever to play this game! Rockstar of cricket! Gone too soon. RIP dude,” said Lee.
Another Australian great Matthew Hayden talks about the impact of the legendary spinner on the cricket community
“Shocked and devastated for our cricket community across the world, who loved, hated, admired, inspired by the impact Varney made through his leg-spinning talent. No game lost, no situation impossible, you are simply the greatest Australian cricketer we have ever played. RIP legend. #king #shanewarne,” he posted on Facebook.
Cricket Australia on Saturday announced that the southern stand at the Melbourne Cricket Ground will be renamed as the SK Warne Stand as a tribute to the legendary spinner.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Saturday that Australians were “shocked” by Warne’s “tragic and sudden loss”, and announced that the cricketing hero would receive a state funeral.
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